IMCA publishes AUV Audit Guidance Document in a bid to promote a common approach to the auditing of autonomous underwater vehicles

Published on 30 July 2021

The International Marine Contractors Association’s (IMCA) newly published ‘AUV Audit Guidance Document’ (IMCA S 028) has been developed by members of the Offshore Survey Division Management Committee with a view to promote a common approach to the auditing of autonomous underwater vehicles (AUV) and their associated support systems.

While this document does contain some parallels with IMCA R 006 ROV Audit Guidance it also highlights technical guidance on the appropriate use of AUVs, for example, relating to the safe management of Lithium batteries.

It is intended that IMCA S 028 will act as a framework for offshore contractors to form their own AUV audit document.  

As Nick Hough, IMCA’s Technical Adviser – Offshore Survey explained:

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Nicholas Hough
Consultant – Safety and Security
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“The AUV Audit Guidance Document applies to all classes of AUV, whether they are hybrid vehicles operating on a tether or launched from a harbour and managed from an onshore facility. These machines are operated by survey personnel to carry out surveys offshore. As autonomous technology gathers momentum within the industry as a viable method of undertaking offshore surveys, it is vital that members play their part and develop an AUV audit document of their own to ensure equipment is fit for purpose.”

IMCA S 028 includes sections on AUV System Audits; Background and Rationale; AUV System Audit Process; Competence and a Sample Template. IMCA S 028 is available for members to download free of charge.

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